Joint Venture Physiotherapy Blog

Fibromyalgia is a rheumatoid disorder characterized by muscle pain and headaches that affects many Canadians. People who suffer from fibromyalgia are more likely to have other conditions than those without.

​If you have fibromyalgia, here are seven other health concerns.

Migraines. The imbalance of brain chemicals serotonin and norepinephrine in people with fibromyalgia causes headaches.

Autoimmune Diseases. Although the reason is unknown, studies have found that approximately 1/4 of people with inflammatory autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis(RA), lupus, Sjögren's syndrome, and ankylosing spondylitis are also exhibiting symptoms of fibromyalgia.

Restless legs. Characterized by an uncontrollable need to move your legs when resting, may be up to 11 times more common in people with fibromyalgia than the general population.

Irritable bowel syndrome. Those suffering from IBS experience abdominal cramps and bouts of constipation and/or diarrhea. It is found in 30% to 70% of people with fibromyalgia.

Pelvic pain. People with fibromyalgia are more likely to report pelvic pain, bladder irritability, and menstrual cramps.

Depression and anxiety. More than 50% of people with fibromyalgia also experience mental or emotional problems at some point in their lives for the same reason for the presence of migraines. The lack of serotonin and norepinephrine can cause shifts in moods and bring cause pain disorders.

Obesity. The chronic pain from fibromyalgia leads people to live sedentary lifestyles. This lack of regular physical activity increases the risk of becoming overweight or obese.

Being aware of the risks associated with fibromyalgia can allow you to seek help in order to prevent and/or treat conditions associated with the disorder.